Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method, performed by a radio network device of selecting a narrowband carrier on which to receive or transmit a message, comprising: determining a required enhanced coverage level; and selecting one narrowband carrier, on which to receive or transmit a message, from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on the determined enhanced coverage level by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, wherein the predetermined function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the plurality of carriers supporting the different enhanced coverage levels, and wherein the one or more predetermined parameters are known to both the radio network device and a network node such that the narrowband carrier is also selected by the network node independently of the radio network device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting a narrowband carrier for message transmission or reception in environments requiring enhanced coverage. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable communication in scenarios where devices operate under varying coverage conditions, such as in extended-range or low-power applications. The solution involves a method performed by a radio network device to select an appropriate narrowband carrier from multiple carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels. The method begins by determining the required enhanced coverage level for the communication. Based on this requirement, the device selects a narrowband carrier from a plurality of carriers, each supporting different coverage levels. The selection is made by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters. This function calculates an index that identifies the specific narrowband carrier from the available options. The parameters used in the function are known to both the radio network device and a network node, ensuring that the same carrier is independently selected by both entities without coordination. This synchronization simplifies the communication process and reduces overhead. The approach ensures that devices and network nodes consistently use the same carrier, improving reliability in extended-coverage scenarios.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the plurality of carriers support different enhanced coverage levels by one or both of transmitting at different power levels and transmitting using different numbers of repetitions.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for enhancing coverage in cellular networks by using multiple carriers with different coverage levels. The problem addressed is providing reliable communication for devices in challenging environments, such as those with high interference, deep indoor penetration, or remote locations, where standard coverage may be insufficient. The method involves using a plurality of carriers, each configured to support different enhanced coverage levels. These carriers achieve varying coverage by adjusting transmission power levels and the number of repetitions used for data transmission. Higher coverage levels are achieved by increasing transmission power or using more repetitions, while lower coverage levels may use standard power and fewer repetitions. This allows the network to dynamically allocate resources based on device requirements, improving efficiency and reliability. The carriers may be part of a single cell or distributed across multiple cells, and the system can dynamically switch between carriers based on signal conditions or device capabilities. This approach ensures that devices in poor coverage areas receive stronger, more reliable signals, while those in better conditions use less resource-intensive configurations. The method optimizes network performance by balancing coverage needs with spectral efficiency.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein determining a required enhanced coverage level comprises measuring received signal power from a narrowband carrier and comparing it to one or more received signal power thresholds.
A method for wireless communication systems determines an enhanced coverage level for a device by measuring the received signal power from a narrowband carrier and comparing it to predefined thresholds. The process involves assessing signal strength to identify areas with weak coverage, where enhanced techniques like repetition or power boosting may be needed. The measured signal power is evaluated against one or more thresholds to classify the coverage level, enabling adaptive adjustments to transmission parameters. This ensures reliable communication in challenging environments, such as remote or indoor locations, by dynamically optimizing signal processing based on real-time signal conditions. The method supports efficient resource allocation and improves overall system performance by tailoring coverage enhancements to specific signal quality conditions.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein selecting one narrowband carrier on which to receive or transmit a message comprises: determining a set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level; wherein selecting the one narrowband carrier comprises selecting the one narrowband carrier from the set of available narrowband carriers.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting narrowband carriers in enhanced coverage scenarios. The problem addressed is efficiently choosing a narrowband carrier for message transmission or reception in wireless networks where devices operate under enhanced coverage conditions, which require robust communication links to overcome signal degradation. The method involves determining a set of available narrowband carriers that support a specific enhanced coverage level, which is a predefined operational mode designed to improve communication reliability for devices in challenging environments. From this set, a single narrowband carrier is selected for transmitting or receiving messages. The selection process ensures that the chosen carrier is compatible with the required coverage level, optimizing communication performance under enhanced conditions. This approach helps maintain reliable connectivity for devices operating in areas with weak signal strength or high interference, such as remote or indoor locations. The method may also involve evaluating multiple carriers to identify those that meet the necessary coverage criteria before making the final selection. This ensures that the selected carrier provides the necessary robustness for successful message delivery.
5. The method of claim 4 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the radio network device and the network include a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for securely authenticating and managing devices within a radio network. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and efficient communication between a radio network device and a network, particularly in scenarios where devices may be mobile or dynamically connected. The method involves using one or more predetermined parameters known to both the radio network device and the network to establish a secure connection. These parameters include a value derived from a unique identifier of the device, such as a hardware address or serial number, ensuring that only authorized devices can participate in the communication. The method may also involve exchanging additional authentication data, such as cryptographic keys or certificates, to further verify the device's identity and establish a secure session. The unique identifier-derived parameter ensures that the device cannot be easily spoofed, as the parameter is tied to the device's inherent characteristics. This approach enhances security while reducing the need for complex pre-shared keys or frequent re-authentication, which can be resource-intensive in large-scale networks. The method is particularly useful in IoT (Internet of Things) environments, where numerous devices must be securely managed without excessive overhead. The technique can be applied in various wireless standards, including cellular, Wi-Fi, or LPWAN (Low-Power Wide-Area Network) technologies.
6. The method of claim 4 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the radio network device and the network include the number of carriers in the determined set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing narrowband carrier selection in enhanced coverage scenarios. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation and utilization of narrowband carriers in networks where devices operate under enhanced coverage conditions, such as in low-power wide-area networks (LPWAN) or cellular IoT applications. The invention provides a technique for a radio network device to determine a set of available narrowband carriers that support a specific enhanced coverage level, ensuring reliable communication for devices operating in challenging radio conditions. The method involves the radio network device identifying one or more predetermined parameters shared with the network, including the number of carriers in the determined set of available narrowband carriers that support the enhanced coverage level. This parameter helps optimize carrier selection by ensuring that the network and the device have synchronized information about the available resources. The technique may also involve evaluating signal quality, interference levels, or other performance metrics to refine carrier selection. By dynamically adjusting the number of carriers based on coverage requirements, the method improves spectral efficiency and reduces signaling overhead while maintaining reliable connectivity for devices in enhanced coverage scenarios. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where devices operate at the edge of network coverage or in environments with high interference.
7. The method of claim 4 wherein the predetermined function is PagingCarrier=floor(ID/N) mod Nce, where PagingCarrier is an index identifying a carrier in the set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level; floor(⋅) is a function mapping a real number to the largest previous integer; ID is a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the device; N=min(T, nB) where min(⋅) is a function returning the smallest value, T is the discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle length in radio frames, and nB can have values of {4T, 2T, T, T/2, T/4, T/8, T/16, T/32}; mod is the modulo operator yielding the remainder of a division operation; and Nce is the number of carriers in the set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting a narrowband carrier for paging a device in enhanced coverage mode. The problem addressed is efficiently distributing paging messages across multiple narrowband carriers to reduce power consumption and improve reliability for devices operating in challenging radio conditions. The method determines a paging carrier by applying a mathematical function to a device identifier. The function is PagingCarrier=floor(ID/N) mod Nce, where PagingCarrier is an index identifying a carrier from a set of available narrowband carriers supporting the device's enhanced coverage level. The floor function maps a real number to the nearest lower integer. ID is derived from the device's unique identifier. N is calculated as the minimum of the DRX cycle length (T) and nB, where nB can be T, T/2, T/4, T/8, T/16, or T/32. The modulo operation yields the remainder of division. Nce is the count of carriers supporting the determined coverage level. This approach ensures devices can efficiently locate their assigned paging carrier based on their identifier and system parameters, optimizing power usage and reducing missed paging opportunities in enhanced coverage scenarios. The method accounts for varying DRX cycle lengths and carrier availability to maintain reliable communication.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein ID=IMSI mod 2 n where IMSI is the International Mobile Subscriber Identity; and n=a number of desired least significant bits of the IMSI.
This invention relates to a method for generating a unique identifier (ID) from the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) in a mobile communication system. The problem addressed is the need for a compact, unique identifier derived from the IMSI to optimize resource allocation, reduce signaling overhead, or enhance privacy in mobile networks. The method extracts a subset of the least significant bits (LSBs) of the IMSI to form the ID. Specifically, the ID is calculated as the IMSI modulo 2^n, where n is the number of desired LSBs. This approach ensures that the ID remains unique within a defined range while reducing the bit length of the identifier. The method can be applied in various mobile network functions, such as authentication, paging, or tracking, to improve efficiency and scalability. By using a configurable number of LSBs, the system can balance uniqueness and compactness based on operational requirements. This technique is particularly useful in scenarios where the full IMSI is unnecessary, and a shorter identifier suffices for the intended purpose. The method may also be combined with other techniques to further enhance privacy or security in mobile communications.
9. A radio network device, comprising: an antenna; a transceiver operatively connected to the antenna; and processing circuitry operatively connected to the transceiver and operative to determine a required enhanced coverage level; and select one narrowband carrier, on which to receive or transmit a message, from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on the determined enhanced coverage level by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, wherein the predetermined function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the plurality of carriers supporting the different enhanced coverage levels, and wherein the one or more predetermined parameters are known to both the radio network device and a network node such that the narrowband carrier is also selected by the network node independently of the radio network device.
This invention relates to radio network devices in wireless communication systems, particularly for selecting narrowband carriers to support enhanced coverage levels. The problem addressed is efficiently determining the appropriate narrowband carrier for communication in scenarios requiring extended coverage, such as in IoT or machine-type communications, where devices may operate in challenging environments with weak signal conditions. The radio network device includes an antenna, a transceiver connected to the antenna, and processing circuitry connected to the transceiver. The processing circuitry determines the required enhanced coverage level for communication and selects a narrowband carrier from multiple available carriers, each supporting different enhanced coverage levels. The selection is based on applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters. This function calculates an index that identifies the specific narrowband carrier from the available options. The predetermined parameters are known to both the radio network device and a network node, ensuring that the same narrowband carrier is selected independently by both the device and the network. This synchronization eliminates the need for explicit signaling, reducing overhead and improving efficiency in carrier selection. The invention ensures reliable communication by aligning the device and network on the same carrier without additional coordination.
10. The device of claim 9 wherein the plurality of carriers support different enhanced coverage levels by one or both of transmitting at different power levels and transmitting using different numbers of repetitions.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically enhancing coverage for devices operating in challenging radio conditions. The problem addressed is providing reliable communication for devices in areas with poor signal quality, such as deep indoor environments or remote locations, by adapting transmission parameters to improve signal reception. The device includes a plurality of carriers configured to support different enhanced coverage levels. These carriers are designed to transmit data at varying power levels and use different numbers of repetitions to ensure robust communication. By adjusting these parameters, the device can dynamically optimize signal strength and reliability based on environmental conditions. The carriers may operate in a coordinated manner, where some transmit at higher power levels while others use more repetitions, allowing the system to balance power consumption and coverage requirements. This approach enables flexible adaptation to varying signal conditions, ensuring consistent performance for devices in marginal coverage areas. The invention improves communication reliability without requiring significant infrastructure changes, making it suitable for existing wireless networks.
11. The device of claim 9 wherein the processing circuitry is operative to determine a required enhanced coverage level by measuring received signal power from a narrowband carrier and comparing it to one or more received signal power thresholds.
A wireless communication device includes processing circuitry configured to determine a required enhanced coverage level by measuring the received signal power from a narrowband carrier and comparing it to one or more predefined received signal power thresholds. The device operates in a wireless communication system where signal strength varies due to environmental factors, and enhanced coverage modes are used to improve communication reliability in weak signal conditions. The processing circuitry evaluates the measured signal power against the thresholds to select an appropriate coverage level, which may involve adjusting transmission parameters such as power, modulation, or coding to maintain reliable communication. The device may also include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals and an antenna for signal propagation. The narrowband carrier is a specific frequency band used for communication, and the thresholds define signal strength levels that trigger different coverage enhancement techniques. This approach ensures efficient use of system resources while maintaining communication quality in varying signal conditions. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining reliable wireless communication in areas with weak signal reception by dynamically adapting to signal strength variations.
12. The device of claim 9 wherein the processing circuitry is operative to select one narrowband carrier on which to receive or transmit a message by: determining a set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level; and wherein selecting the one narrowband carrier comprises selecting the one narrowband carrier from the set.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving message reception and transmission in enhanced coverage scenarios. The problem addressed is efficiently selecting a narrowband carrier for communication in environments where signal conditions require enhanced coverage levels, such as in IoT devices operating in challenging RF conditions. The device includes processing circuitry that selects a narrowband carrier for receiving or transmitting messages. The selection process involves first determining the enhanced coverage level required for reliable communication. The processing circuitry then identifies a set of available narrowband carriers that support this determined coverage level. From this set, one narrowband carrier is selected for the communication task. This ensures that the chosen carrier meets the necessary signal quality and reliability standards for the given operating conditions. The selection mechanism optimizes communication efficiency by avoiding carriers that do not meet the required coverage level, thereby reducing transmission failures and improving overall system performance. The invention is particularly useful in IoT applications where devices operate in environments with varying signal strengths and interference levels.
13. The device of claim 12 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the radio network device and the network include a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the device.
A wireless communication device is configured to securely authenticate with a radio network by using one or more predetermined parameters known to both the device and the network. The device includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the device to perform authentication by generating a cryptographic key based on the predetermined parameters. The parameters include a value derived from a unique identifier of the device, such as a hardware serial number or a network-assigned identifier, ensuring that the key is uniquely tied to the device. The device then uses this key to establish a secure communication session with the network, verifying its identity without transmitting the unique identifier directly. This method enhances security by preventing unauthorized devices from impersonating the authenticated device, as the key derivation process relies on the unique identifier while keeping it confidential. The system is designed for use in wireless networks where secure authentication is critical, such as in cellular or IoT networks, to prevent unauthorized access and ensure data integrity. The device may also include additional security features, such as encryption and integrity checks, to further protect the communication session.
14. The device of claim 12 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the radio network device and the network include the number of carriers in the determined set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving communication reliability in environments with limited bandwidth and coverage challenges. The technology addresses the problem of efficiently managing narrowband carriers in a radio network to support devices operating at different coverage levels, particularly in scenarios where signal quality is degraded. The device includes a radio network component that determines a set of available narrowband carriers and identifies an enhanced coverage level required for communication. The device then selects a subset of these carriers based on one or more predetermined parameters shared between the radio network and the network. These parameters include the number of carriers in the available set that can support the determined enhanced coverage level. By dynamically adjusting the carrier selection based on these parameters, the system ensures reliable communication even in challenging conditions, such as those experienced by devices in remote or obstructed areas. The invention optimizes resource allocation by focusing on carriers that meet the required coverage level, reducing unnecessary signaling and improving efficiency. This approach is particularly useful in low-power, wide-area networks where bandwidth is constrained and coverage variability is common.
15. A method, performed by a network node operative in wireless communication network, of determining a narrowband carrier on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from a first radio network device, comprising: transmitting, in a message on a narrowband carrier, information about one or more available narrowband carriers including at least an indication of the enhanced coverage levels supported on each narrowband carrier; and selecting one narrowband carrier, on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from the first radio network device, from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on a determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, wherein the predetermined function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the plurality of carriers supporting the different enhanced coverage levels, and wherein the one or more predetermined parameters are known to both the first radio network device and the network such that the narrowband carrier is also selected by the first radio network device independently of the network node.
In wireless communication networks, particularly those supporting narrowband communications, a key challenge is efficiently managing message transmission and reception between network nodes and radio devices, especially when devices require different levels of enhanced coverage. Enhanced coverage levels are necessary for devices operating in challenging radio conditions, such as those in deep indoor or underground environments. However, selecting an appropriate narrowband carrier for communication can be complex, as it must align with the device's coverage needs while ensuring synchronization between the network and the device. This invention addresses this problem by providing a method for a network node to determine a narrowband carrier for transmitting or receiving messages with a radio device. The method involves transmitting information about available narrowband carriers, including the enhanced coverage levels they support. The network node then selects a carrier from multiple options, each supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on the device's determined coverage requirement. The selection is made by applying a predetermined function to one or more parameters known to both the device and the network. This function calculates an index that identifies the appropriate narrowband carrier. Because the same parameters are known to both the device and the network, the device can independently select the same carrier without further coordination, ensuring efficient and synchronized communication. This approach simplifies carrier selection while ensuring compatibility with the device's coverage needs.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the plurality of carriers support different enhanced coverage levels by one or both of transmitting at different power levels and transmitting using different numbers of repetitions.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for supporting enhanced coverage in cellular networks. The problem addressed is providing reliable communication for devices in challenging radio conditions, such as those at cell edges or in buildings, where signal strength is weak. The solution involves using multiple carriers with different coverage enhancement techniques to ensure robust connectivity. The method employs a plurality of carriers, each configured to support different levels of enhanced coverage. This is achieved by adjusting transmission parameters such as power levels and the number of repetitions used for data transmission. Higher coverage levels are provided by increasing transmit power or using more repetitions, which improves signal reliability in weak signal areas. The carriers may be configured dynamically based on network conditions or device requirements, allowing flexible adaptation to varying coverage needs. The invention also includes techniques for managing these carriers, such as selecting appropriate carriers for specific devices or adjusting their configurations in real-time. This ensures efficient use of network resources while maintaining reliable communication for all users, including those in difficult coverage scenarios. The approach enhances overall network performance by extending coverage and improving service quality in challenging environments.
17. The method of claim 15 wherein the information about one or more available narrowband carriers is transmitted in a broadcast message on an anchor narrowband carrier.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing narrowband carriers in a network. The problem addressed is the efficient transmission of information about available narrowband carriers to user devices, ensuring reliable and low-overhead communication in scenarios where bandwidth is limited or fragmented. The method involves broadcasting information about one or more available narrowband carriers on an anchor narrowband carrier. The anchor carrier serves as a primary channel for transmitting system information, including details about other narrowband carriers that may be available for communication. This approach reduces the need for individual signaling to each device, conserving network resources and improving efficiency. The broadcast message on the anchor carrier may include parameters such as carrier frequency, bandwidth, and operational status, allowing devices to quickly identify and access alternative narrowband carriers as needed. This method is particularly useful in systems where devices may need to switch between carriers for load balancing, interference mitigation, or coverage optimization. By centralizing carrier information on a single anchor carrier, the system ensures that devices can seamlessly transition between carriers without excessive signaling overhead.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein the information about one or more available narrowband carriers also includes the number of available narrowband carriers.
A method for managing narrowband carrier information in wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating and utilizing narrowband carriers in environments with limited spectrum resources. The method involves determining the availability of narrowband carriers within a communication network and providing this information to devices operating within the network. Specifically, the method includes transmitting information about one or more available narrowband carriers, where this information includes the number of available narrowband carriers. This allows devices to assess the current spectrum conditions and optimize their communication strategies accordingly. The method may also involve receiving requests for carrier information from devices and dynamically updating the available carrier data based on real-time network conditions. By providing detailed carrier availability, including the count of available narrowband carriers, the method enhances spectrum efficiency and reduces interference in wireless networks. This approach is particularly useful in systems where narrowband carriers are shared among multiple devices, ensuring fair and effective resource allocation.
19. The method of claim 15 wherein selecting one narrowband carrier on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from the first radio network device comprises; determining a set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting narrowband carriers in enhanced coverage scenarios. The problem addressed is efficiently managing communication between a radio network device and a base station when the device requires enhanced coverage due to challenging signal conditions, such as in remote or indoor environments. The method involves selecting an optimal narrowband carrier for transmitting or receiving messages between a radio network device and a base station. First, the device's enhanced coverage level requirement is determined, which defines the signal strength and reliability needed for stable communication. Next, a set of available narrowband carriers is identified, each capable of supporting the determined coverage level. The selection process ensures that the chosen carrier meets the device's specific requirements, optimizing communication performance in low-signal environments. The method may also involve evaluating multiple narrowband carriers to identify those that can support the required coverage level, considering factors like signal quality, interference, and bandwidth availability. By dynamically selecting the most suitable carrier, the system adapts to varying conditions, improving reliability and efficiency in enhanced coverage scenarios. This approach is particularly useful in IoT and machine-type communication applications where devices operate in challenging environments.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the first radio network device and the network include a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the first radio network device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for securely establishing communication between a first radio network device and a network using one or more predetermined parameters known to both parties. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and efficient authentication and communication setup in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where devices need to verify their identity before establishing a connection. The method involves the first radio network device and the network sharing one or more predetermined parameters, which include a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the first radio network device. This unique identifier-based parameter enhances security by ensuring that only devices with the correct identifier can participate in the communication process. The method may also involve additional steps such as exchanging authentication messages, verifying the parameters, and establishing a secure communication link based on the verification. The use of a unique identifier-derived parameter ensures that the communication is authenticated and protected against unauthorized access. This approach is particularly useful in environments where devices need to securely connect to a network without prior configuration, such as in IoT (Internet of Things) deployments or mobile networks. The method may also include error handling mechanisms to manage cases where the parameters do not match or where communication fails, ensuring robustness in real-world applications.
21. A network node operative in wireless communication network, comprising: one or more antennas; a transceiver operatively connected to an antenna; and processing circuitry operatively connected to the transceiver and operative to transmit, in a message on a narrowband carrier, information about one or more available narrowband carriers including at least an indication of the enhanced coverage levels supported on each narrowband carrier; and select one narrowband carrier, on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from a first radio network device, from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on a determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, wherein the predetermined function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the plurality of carriers supporting the different enhanced coverage levels, and wherein the one or more predetermined parameters are known to both the first radio network device and the network such that the narrowband carrier is also selected by the first radio network device independently of the network node.
A network node in a wireless communication network includes one or more antennas, a transceiver connected to an antenna, and processing circuitry connected to the transceiver. The processing circuitry transmits, in a message on a narrowband carrier, information about available narrowband carriers, including an indication of the enhanced coverage levels supported on each carrier. The network node selects a narrowband carrier for transmitting or receiving messages with a first radio network device from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels. The selection is based on the determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters. The function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the available carriers. The predetermined parameters are known to both the first radio network device and the network node, ensuring that the same narrowband carrier is independently selected by the first radio network device without coordination from the network node. This approach optimizes carrier selection for devices with varying coverage needs in wireless networks.
22. The network node of claim 21 wherein the plurality of carriers support different enhanced coverage levels by one or both of transmitting at different power levels and transmitting using different numbers of repetitions.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to network nodes that support enhanced coverage for user devices in challenging radio conditions. The problem addressed is providing reliable communication in areas with poor signal quality, such as cell edges or indoor environments, by optimizing carrier configurations to extend coverage. The network node includes multiple carriers configured to support different enhanced coverage levels. These carriers are adapted to transmit at varying power levels and use different numbers of repetitions to improve signal reception. Higher power levels and more repetitions enhance coverage for devices in weak signal areas, while lower power levels and fewer repetitions serve devices with better signal conditions. The node dynamically adjusts these parameters to balance coverage, capacity, and efficiency. The invention also involves coordinating these carriers with other network nodes to ensure seamless handover and interference management. By leveraging multiple carriers with configurable transmission properties, the system ensures robust connectivity across diverse coverage scenarios. This approach improves reliability for devices in marginal coverage areas without compromising performance for well-connected devices. The solution is particularly useful in 5G and beyond networks, where enhanced coverage is critical for supporting a wide range of use cases, including IoT and mission-critical communications.
23. The network node of claim 21 wherein the processing circuitry is operative to transmit information about one or more available narrowband carriers by transmitting the information in a broadcast message on an anchor narrowband carrier.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the efficiency of narrowband carrier management in networks. The problem addressed is the need for devices to efficiently discover and utilize available narrowband carriers in a wireless network, particularly in scenarios where multiple narrowband carriers may be available but not all devices are aware of their presence or capabilities. The invention involves a network node configured to manage and broadcast information about available narrowband carriers. The network node includes processing circuitry that transmits details about one or more available narrowband carriers by including this information in a broadcast message sent on an anchor narrowband carrier. The anchor narrowband carrier serves as a primary communication channel through which devices can receive updates about other narrowband carriers in the network. This approach ensures that devices can quickly and reliably discover available narrowband resources without requiring individual signaling or complex handshake procedures. The processing circuitry may also be configured to determine the availability of narrowband carriers based on network conditions, such as traffic load, interference levels, or device requirements. The broadcast message may include parameters such as carrier frequency, bandwidth, and operational status, allowing devices to select the most suitable narrowband carrier for their communication needs. This method reduces signaling overhead and improves network efficiency by centralizing carrier information dissemination through a single, well-known anchor carrier. The invention is particularly useful in IoT and low-power wide-area networks where efficient resource utilization is critical.
24. The network node of claim 21 wherein the processing circuitry is operative to select one narrowband carrier on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from the first radio network device by; determining a set of available narrowband carriers that support the determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving message transmission and reception between a network node and a radio network device operating in enhanced coverage mode. The problem addressed is efficiently selecting an appropriate narrowband carrier for communication when the device requires enhanced coverage, which typically involves higher power or more robust modulation schemes to overcome signal degradation. The network node includes processing circuitry that selects a narrowband carrier for communication with the radio network device. The selection process involves determining the enhanced coverage level required by the device and identifying a set of available narrowband carriers that support this requirement. The processing circuitry then selects one carrier from this set for transmitting or receiving messages. This ensures reliable communication by matching the carrier's capabilities to the device's needs, particularly in challenging radio conditions where enhanced coverage is necessary. The solution optimizes resource allocation and improves communication reliability in scenarios where devices operate at the edge of network coverage.
25. The network node of claim 24 wherein the one or more predetermined parameters known to both the first radio network device and the network include a parameter derived from a unique identifier of the first radio network device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving security and efficiency in network node operations. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and reliable communication between a network node and a first radio network device, such as a user equipment (UE), by using predetermined parameters known to both entities. These parameters are derived from a unique identifier of the first radio network device, such as an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) or a temporary identifier, to authenticate and authorize communication. The network node, which may be a base station or access point, uses these parameters to verify the identity of the first radio network device before establishing or maintaining a connection. This approach enhances security by preventing unauthorized access and ensures efficient communication by reducing the need for repeated authentication processes. The invention also includes methods for generating, storing, and updating these parameters to maintain synchronization between the network node and the first radio network device. The use of unique identifiers ensures that the parameters are specific to each device, further improving security and reducing the risk of spoofing or impersonation attacks. The system may also include additional radio network devices, where the network node manages communication with multiple devices using their respective unique identifiers and derived parameters. This solution is particularly useful in cellular networks, Wi-Fi systems, and other wireless communication environments where secure and efficient device authentication is critical.
26. A non-transitory computer readable medium, containing program instructions which, when executed in a network node operative in a wireless communication network, are operative to cause processing circuitry in the network node to perform the steps of: transmitting, in a message on a narrowband carrier, information about one or more available narrowband carriers including at least an indication of the enhanced coverage levels supported on each narrowband carrier; and selecting one narrowband carrier, on which to transmit messages to or receive messages from a first radio network device, from a plurality of carriers supporting different enhanced coverage levels, based on a determined enhanced coverage level requirement of the first radio network device by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, wherein the predetermined function calculates an index identifying the narrowband carrier from the plurality of carriers supporting the different enhanced coverage levels, and wherein the one or more predetermined parameters are known to both the first radio network device and the network such that the narrowband carrier is also selected by the first radio network device independently of the network node.
This invention relates to wireless communication networks, specifically methods for managing narrowband carrier selection in systems supporting enhanced coverage levels. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation of narrowband carriers to devices with varying coverage requirements, ensuring consistent carrier selection by both the network and the device without additional signaling overhead. The invention involves a network node in a wireless communication network that transmits information about available narrowband carriers in a message on a narrowband carrier. This information includes details about the enhanced coverage levels supported on each carrier. The network node then selects a narrowband carrier for communication with a first radio network device based on the device's determined enhanced coverage level requirement. The selection is made by applying a predetermined function to one or more predetermined parameters, which calculates an index identifying the appropriate narrowband carrier. These parameters are known to both the device and the network, ensuring that the same carrier is independently selected by the device without further coordination. The predetermined function ensures that both the network and the device arrive at the same carrier selection, reducing signaling and improving efficiency. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where devices operate under different coverage conditions, such as in extended coverage areas where signal strength varies significantly.
Unknown
March 31, 2020
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